In a surprising turn of events, the Regional Transport Office (RTO) in Lucknow has issued a stern notice to Indian cricketer Akash Deep, directing him to cease using his newly acquired SUV on public roads until all registration formalities, including the installation of a mandatory High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP) and Third Registration Mark (TRM), are completed.
The action, taken on Monday, August 11, 2025, highlights a growing crackdown on vehicular compliance in the region. Alongside Akash Deep, The RTO has also served a show-cause notice to the Chinhat-based dealership responsible for delivering the vehicle without adhering to legal requirements.
Akash Deep, who recently made headlines with his stellar performance in the India-England Test series, purchased the SUV—a black Toyota Fortuner—on August 7, 2025, a move celebrated on his social media with family photos. The vehicle was insured on August 8 and assigned the fancy registration number UP32 QW 0041 on August 9. However, the RTO’s investigation revealed that the Transfer of Registration Certificate (TR/RC) process remains incomplete on the Vahan portal, and the mandatory HSRP and TRM have not been fitted. This violation contravenes Sections 39 and 41(6) of the Motor Vehicles Act, 1988, and Rule 50 of the Central Motor Vehicles Rules, 1989.
Legal Implications and RTO’s Stance
The notice explicitly warns that driving the SUV in its current unregistered state is an offence under Section 192 of the Motor Vehicles Act (MVA), with authorities empowered to seize or detain the vehicle under Section 207. Akash Deep has been given a 72-hour window—until August 14, 2025—to appear in person or through an authorized representative, armed with essential documents such as proof of registration, insurance, and tax payment. Failure to comply could escalate the matter, potentially leading to penalties or vehicle impoundment.
This incident underscores the RTO’s zero-tolerance policy toward non-compliance. The HSRP, a laser-coded, tamper-proof plate with a chromium-based hologram, and the TRM are mandatory under Indian law to enhance vehicle identification and curb theft. The RTO’s action follows reports of the SUV being spotted on Lucknow roads without these features, prompting swift intervention. For more on vehicle registration laws, explore our guide to Indian traffic rules.
Dealership Under Scrutiny
The RTO has not spared the dealership, issuing a show-cause notice to the Chinhat-based outlet that handed over the vehicle to Akash Deep. The letter, signed by the Lucknow regional transport officer, threatens legal action under Sections 192 and 207 of the MVA against the “defaulting dealer” for delivering the SUV without HSRP and TRM. This marks a significant escalation, with the dealership now required to justify its lapse within a stipulated period.
The RTO has also issued a broader directive to all automobile dealers in the region, emphasizing that no vehicle—whether for temporary or permanent registration—can be delivered without HSRP and TRM. Dealers are instructed to ensure compliance with Forms 20, 21, and 22, which document sale, roadworthiness, and registration details, respectively, and to update records promptly on the Vahan portal. This move aims to prevent future violations and protect consumers, including high-profile figures like Akash Deep.
Context and Public Reaction
Akash Deep’s purchase came on the heels of his impressive 13-wicket haul in the recent England series, making his new Fortuner a symbol of personal triumph. Priced at over ₹62 lakh, the top-variant SUV was a proud moment shared with fans on Instagram, captioned “Dream delivered. Keys received.” However, this joy has been overshadowed by the RTO’s notice, sparking debates online. Fans on X have expressed mixed reactions, with some sympathizing with the cricketer—“He’s just living his dream, cut him some slack!”—while others support the RTO’s enforcement—“Rules are rules, even for celebrities.”
The incident also highlights the dealership’s oversight, raising questions about quality control in vehicle delivery. The Chinhat outlet’s failure to complete registration formalities has drawn criticism, with netizens calling for stricter audits. For insights into celebrity vehicle purchases, check our latest auto news.
Broader Implications for Vehicle Compliance
This case is part of a larger effort by Indian transport authorities to enforce HSRP and TRM mandates, introduced to combat vehicle cloning and improve road safety. Since 2019, the Supreme Court has mandated HSRPs for all vehicles, yet compliance remains patchy, especially with high-end purchases. The RTO’s action against Akash Deep serves as a high-profile reminder of these obligations, potentially setting a precedent for future cases.
The 72-hour deadline places Akash Deep in a tight spot, requiring swift coordination with the dealership to rectify the issue. Given his busy cricketing schedule, including upcoming domestic matches, this could complicate matters. The RTO’s insistence on document submission also underscores the importance of digital platforms like Vahan, which streamline registration but demand timely updates.
Expert Opinions and Next Steps
Transport expert Ravi Shankar, speaking to local media, noted, “HSRP non-compliance is a serious issue, and celebrities like Akash Deep must lead by example. The dealership’s lapse is equally concerning.” He suggested that the cricketer could appeal for an extension if logistical challenges arise, though the RTO’s firm tone suggests little leniency.
Akash Deep has yet to issue an official statement, but sources close to him indicate he is working with authorities to resolve the matter. The dealership, meanwhile, faces potential suspension or fines, pending its response to the show-cause notice. For updates on this story, visit our breaking news section.
This episode could prompt stricter oversight of dealerships and greater awareness among buyers about registration norms. As the deadline looms, all eyes are on how Akash Deep navigates this off-field challenge.